The production house behind Ravi Teja's ‘Irumudi’ has been asked to appear before the Telangana labour department following a complaint concerning child actor Nakshathra's involvement in the film. Mythri Movie Makers has received a notice from the department, which is seeking clarification on the minor's working conditions, remuneration and participation in promotional events.

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According to a report by Telangana Today, the complaint was submitted by C Mahesh Babu, founder-president of Jai Lok Satta (Social Justice Forum). It raises questions about Nakshathra's working hours, payment and other aspects of her engagement with the film.

The joint commissioner of labour for the Ranga Reddy Zone has called the production house for a meeting on November 4 at Anjaiah Karmika Samkshema Bhavan, RTC X Roads. The department is also expected to look into whether the language and exchanges involving the child actor at a promotional event compromised her dignity or safety.

Documents sought from production house

The labour department has reportedly asked Mythri Movie Makers to produce records relating to Nakshathra's participation in the film. These include permission obtained from the District Magistrate, written consent from her parents, details of her working hours and attendance, arrangements made for her education, and the safety measures followed during the shoot.

The producers have also been asked to provide information about the child's involvement in promotional programmes. Another point under scrutiny is whether the production house deposited 20 percent of her remuneration in a fixed deposit account opened in her name, as required under child artist regulations.

The November 4 meeting will give the department an opportunity to examine these records and determine whether the production followed the applicable rules governing the employment of minors in the entertainment industry.

What triggered the complaint against 'Irumudi'?

The development follows the controversy surrounding Ravi Teja's interaction with Nakshathra at a pre-release event for ‘Irumudi’ in August. During a conversation on stage, the young actor asked Ravi what nickname he would give her. His response, which included an allegedly derogatory term (mudura munda) used twice, drew an uncomfortable reaction from some of those present.

Nakshathra appeared unfamiliar with the word and told the actor, "Sorry, I don't know the meaning." Ravi responded that he would explain it to her later.

The term has more than one connotation. While it has occasionally been used affectionately to describe someone unusually mature or precocious for their age, it is also widely recognised as an insulting expression when directed at women. Its use in reference to a child actor at a public film event consequently drew criticism.

Several people questioned whether such language was appropriate in an interaction with a minor. Ravi Teja's fans, meanwhile, defended him, arguing that the expression was intended affectionately and was not meant to cause offence. Neither the actor nor the Irumudi team issued a public response to the controversy.

About Ravi Teja's 'Irumudi'

Directed by Shiva Nirvana and starring Ravi Teja, ‘Irumudi’ arrived in theatres on August 21. The film is now available to stream on Netflix.

The story follows a man with violent tendencies who takes on the fight against child abuse. Nakshathra also features in the film as a child actor.